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Shanghai Waigaoqiao delivers world's first VLCC built to Common Structural Rules

Shanghai Waigaoqiao delivers world's first VLCC built to Common Structural Rules

Shanghai: Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipyard (SWS) yesterday delivered to Singapore's Ocean Tankers (Pte) Ltd becoming the first very large crude carrier (VLCC) built to Common Structural Rules (CSR).

The 318,000-dwt Hua San, the first of 11 VLCCs confirmed to Lloyd's Register class at Shanghai Waigaoqiao, was delivered to the owners five months ahead of schedule, ushering in a CSR era that is committed to increase the durability of hull structures for the modern fleet.

"We are obviously very proud to have supported the design, construction and now delivery of the world's first VLCC built to Common Structural Rules. That the vessel was delivered well ahead of schedule is a testimony to the professionalism of our partnership with Ocean Tankers and Waigaoqiao Shipyard," said Nick Brown, General Manager China for Lloyd's Register Asia. "With a global recession looming and financing harder to find, the industry spotlight rightly has intensified on maintaining the construction of quality ships. The success of this project is the result of our strategy to work with yards and owners who share our vision for quality."

The Hua San is the first of an initial order of six VLCCs ordered by Ocean Tankers at Shanghai Waigaoqiao, four of which were classed to Lloyd's Register. The expansion-minded tanker operator last year returned to the yard for another order of three VLCCs, with three options, again awarding the class for the confirmed ships to Lloyd's Register. [29/10/08]